For two years, I spearheaded the transformation of the iconic, long-abandoned Altino Arantes (Banespa) building in downtown São Paulo into the vibrant Farol Santander — a comprehensive two-year renovation project commissioned by Santander. As Creative Director at SUNO, I led the creative vision and launch of each floor, orchestrating a rebirth of this historical Art‑Deco skyscraper into São Paulo’s most beloved cultural destination.
The revitalization included:
4TH FLOOR - VIK MUNIZ PERMANENT EXHIBITION
I commissioned artist Vik Muniz to create a monumental 360° photographic installation using waste and demolition debris from the building renovation. Utilizing views from the former observation deck, Vik captured São Paulo’s cityscape in six large panels, plus a complementary piece, seamlessly integrating the building’s history and urban panorama.
Vik Muniz permanent exhibition
21ST FLOOR SKATE PARK
On the 21st floor, I led the design of an indoor skate park in collaboration with seven-time world champion Bob Burnquist. This became an unparalleled space for skate culture within an urban icon, attracting enthusiasts and media alike.
Skatepark
3RD, 4TH AND 5TH MEMORY FLOORS
We reactivated multiple floors as “vintage bank experiences”: historical recreations of original teller halls and director offices, interactive exhibitions using video tunnels and vintage furniture, giving visitors a sense of the building’s banking legacy.
9TH FLOOR THE WORKSHOP
On the 9th floor, I curated experimental installations by Marcelo Stefanovicz focused on circular design and repurposing waste—turning discarded materials into art and provoking dialogue about sustainability.
THE VAULT BAR
We re-opened one of the old bank’s vaults as an exclusive Sub Astor Bar experience—an intimate, hidden gem inside the original safe, where guests enjoy cocktails surrounded by vault doors and rich history.
The Vault Bar
THE 25TH LOFT
The 25th floor was transformed into a signature loft by design studio Triptyque—a 335 m² Art‑Deco gem that now functions as both a rentable venue and an immersive showcase of the building’s heritage.
The 25th floor Loft